3 tips for good business etiquette

These days, popular sociological theories tend to adhere to the view that there really isn’t much that separates humans from animals: we’re still wild, just reformed. This seems to be quite reductionist, but also inherently false. There are, it seems, several aspects of humanity that make us clearly different from animals: our higher senses, self-awareness, and interpersonal skills put us at the top of the biological totem pole. But how we treat and behave with each other also influences who we really are. In the civilized world, this would simply be called Etiquette. Etiquette is basically some intangible reference point that governs or dictates acceptable or appropriate standards or norms of social behavior.

These standards also apply to the world of commerce, commerce and economics that drive the industrialized world today. Business etiquette then governs social behavior within the confines of corporate culture. After all, there is a proper way to introduce ourselves, communicate, interact, and do business with others. Professional etiquette is paramount to harmonious corporate relationships within the civilized industrial world. In this article, we’ll look at just three key traits for good workplace or business etiquette:

personal impressions

The way we conduct ourselves says a lot about who we are and what we value. It seems that we intuitively understand this. Before attending a professional meeting, we make sure to wear appropriate and professional business attire. One must ensure that one is well-groomed and clean. Standing with a warm smile and a genuine handshake are qualities of authenticity and trust. Eye contact is also vitally important because it communicates care and interest. This makes a good first impression.

Positive Communication

When talking to a person, addressing them by name a couple of times in the first few minutes of the conversation is considered very professionally personal. This shows genuine interest and a personal connection to the person we’re talking to. Occasionally nodding politely also indicates interest and attention in what they are saying. In professional settings, it is generally considered appropriate to avoid personal questions or topics. However, the threshold for this suitability varies from culture to culture. This is another reason why it is considered appropriate to avoid personal problems altogether. Giving yourself the space to speak without interrupting is also just as important.

Communication etiquette also applies to non-personal communication. It is considered appropriate to return emails and voice messages as soon as possible. Voice messages should be polite and direct. Emails must avoid spelling or grammatical errors. Business etiquette also implies that one should not use vulgar language or pop culture terminology in professional email correspondence. It’s also best to avoid unnecessary exclamation points, bold or underlined words, as they can come across as overtly aggressive and rude.

meetings

Generally, a meeting is the environment or scenario where the dynamics of professional etiquette will come together. One should never arrive more than five minutes early to a meeting, as the person may not be ready for you yet, as they may still be preparing for the meeting or doing something else. One should definitely not be late for a meeting, as this can be considered rude and unprofessional. This is also considered impolite because it leaves the other people involved waiting for you to show up and this implies a lack of respect for other people’s time. If you must leave the meeting early, it is appropriate to explain why you need to leave, to make sure everyone understands why your reason justifies leaving early.

Business etiquette training is an important aspect of interpersonal relationships in the workplace. It encourages professional behavior, respect and due diligence for codes and expected conduct within the parameters of a legitimate business environment.